Gorakhpur: Sanskrit is the foundation of Indian culture and values, and preserving the language is essential for safeguarding the country’s cultural heritage, speakers said at a seminar on ‘Sanskrit and Indian Culture’ held at Gorakhnath Temple on Sunday.The seminar was organised as part of the week-long programme marking the 57th death anniversary of Brahmaleen Mahant Digvijaynath and the 12th death anniversary of Rashtrasant Brahmaleen Mahant Avaidyanath.Delivering the keynote address, vice-chancellor of Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri National Sanskrit University, New Delhi, Prof Murli Manohar Pathak said India’s identity rests on Sanskrit, values and culture. He described Sanskrit as an eternal language that forms the basis of Indian traditions and social values. “Culture is shaped by values, and a value-based way of life is culture,” he said, adding that Sanskrit played a key role in India’s civilisational heritage and global stature.Chief guest Mahant Shivnath Ji Maharaj from Cuttack, Odisha, said Indian culture promotes peace and harmony. Referring to global conflicts, he said the principles of Indian culture and the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita could offer guidance towards peaceful coexistence. “Our culture is not of war but of wisdom,” he said.Mahant Yogi Mahendranath Ji Maharaj of Rajasthan said Sanskrit and culture are integral to daily life and moral values. Comparing Sanskrit to the roots of a tree, he said weakening of the language would weaken the nation’s cultural foundation.Mahant Lalanath Ji Maharaj of Neemuch, Madhya Pradesh, said Sanskrit remains central to religious and ceremonial traditions in India and continues to command respect and opportunities for scholars.Speaking on the occasion, Mahant Raju Das Ji Maharaj of Hanumangarhi, Ayodhya, said Sanskrit has been instrumental in shaping Indian civilisation for centuries and urged students to study the language alongside other subjects.Former acting chairperson of the Uttar Pradesh Hindi Sansthan, Prof Sadanand Prasad Gupta said Indian culture, rooted in Sanskrit scriptures, has consistently promoted the ideals of universal welfare and peace.The seminar was chaired by Gorakshpeeth chief priest Yogi Kamalnath Ji.Maharana Pratap Shiksha Parishad vice-president Rajesh Mohan Sarkar proposed the vote of thanks. Several saints and religious leaders from Ayodhya and Devi Patan also attended the programme.
